Step-down power modules offer high efficiency and excellent space savings

Mouser is now offering the Texas Instruments LMZM23600 and LMZM23601 step-down DC-DC power modules. Housed in a compact, 3.8mmx 3mm x 1.6mm MicroSiP package, the modules can reduce board space by up to 58%, claiming to make the LMZM23601 the smallest 1A DC-DC power module on the market for industrial applications. The company’s 0.5A power modules are available in a fixed-output voltage of either 3.3V and 5V or with an adjustable output voltage of 2.5V to 15V. The modules feature an integrated inductor and an input voltage range of 4V to 36V with up to 92% efficiency to minimise energy loss. The modules’ 30µA quiescent current increases light-load efficiency and prolongs battery life in battery-powered applications. The power modules need only two external components for fixed-output voltage performance, providing an easy-to-use solution for designers, as well as plug-and-play capability. The power modules maintain a seamless transition between forced PWM mode and auto PFM mode, allowing both constant-frequency operations and high-efficiency operations with light loads. The modules are optimised for low-EMI, performance-driven industrial applications and incorporate built-in control loop compensation, current limit protection, soft start, and undervoltage lockout. The modules are supported by the LMZM23600 and LMZM23601 evaluation modules, fully assembled and tested modules that enable developers to evaluate the features and performance of the power modules. The LMZM236000 evaluation module is available in all three output voltage options, while the LMZM23601 evaluation module is available in an adjustable 2.5V to 15V version.